World Federation of Democratic Youth: Solidarity with the uprising of the Bahraini people – WFDY, 17.2.2011 – The last few days witnessed a wide movement of protest and demonstration in Bahrain demanding for democratic political reform towards a constitutional democratic state. This has been a historical demand for the progressive forces of Bahrain and now many people are rallying around it. Tens of thousands went into the streets demanding for their inalienable political rights which is very significant in a country of a population of half-million.

Rachel Brooks: Bahrain – monarchy and imperialist interests under threat – L5I, 17.2.2011 – The island monarchy of Bahrain has seen its first mass protests emerging against the regime. Inspired by the events in Tunisia and Egypt, thousands have come out in protest in the Gulf coastal state of Bahrain. Bahrain is the poorest of the states along the gulf coast and is ruled by an unconstitutional monarchy. The majority of protesters are demanding a constitution, not even an end to the monarchy. But this was too much for the Wahhabi King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

Protesters occupied pearl Square in the centre of the capital Manama on Tuesday 15 February. Pearl Square was attacked by riot police at 3am on 17 February, and violently cleared out, hundreds were injured and four were killed. Now the capital is under siege by police and the army, tanks on every street corner, armed police checking peoples identity papers. But as Abdul Wahab Hussain, an opposition leader made clear this week “This is just the beginning”.

Ben S. Cohen: Bahrain: The Missing ‚A‘ Word – The Huffington Post, 17.2.2011 – In all the coverage of the freedom protests in Bahrain, a certain word beginning with the letter ‚A‘ has been strikingly absent. … I refer to the word ‚apartheid.‘

FIDH: Interview of Nabeel Rajab, President of the Bahrain Center for Human Rights – FIDH, 18.2.2011 – Interview of Nabeel Rajab, President of the Bahrain Center for Human Rights, Deputy Secretary General of FIDH. The situation has been very tough for the past few days. … We have already buried three people. The situation is sad, shocking and also very frightening because of the violence of the repression against the protesters. The protests started on the 14th of February when 20 to 30 demonstrations broke out throughout the country and have continued every day since then. These protests differed in size and amplitude ranging from several hundred people to up to 70 000 people in the biggest demonstration in Siitra. Bahrain is a very small nation of 600 000 people, so these are very important numbers, a large proportion of the Bahraini community are involved in these protests. … There is a great sense of unity in this movement. This is the first time in Bahrain that people have come together in this way. Six people have already been killed in the five days of protest and hundreds of people have been injured, these are also very important numbers for such a small population as in Bahrain. … At first people were not asking for a change of regime. They were asking for political reform and political participation. They want greater respect for their human rights and the liberation of political prisoners. They demand an end to discrimination and torture. They are asking for the right to elect their government, they want a new prime minister and a new written Constitution. However, as the situation has progressed, the people have become more and more angry over the government’s response to these peaceful protests. They will not accept a government that kills it’s own people and their demands are changing, they are now requesting a regime change.

Bahrain mourners call for toppling of monarchy – The Times of India, 18.2.2011 – Thousands of funeral mourners called for the downfall of Bahrain’s ruling monarchy as burials began Friday after a deadly assault on pro-reform protesters that has brought army tanks into the streets of the most strategic Western ally in the Gulf. The cries against Bahrain’s king and his inner circle reflect an escalation of the demands from a political uprising that began by only asking for a weakening of the Sunni monarchy’s hold on top government posts and addressing discrimination by the Shiite majority in the tiny island nation.

Lethal crackdown in Bahrain is “Made in the US” – World Socialist Web Site, 18.02.2011 – A savage attack by police on peaceful, sleeping demonstrators in the center of Bahrain’s capital Manama early Thursday morning left at least six dead, dozens wounded and 60 missing.

Bahrain opposition demand reforms – Al Jazeera, 20.02.2011 – Leaders call for political reform but protesters‘ demands differ after days of demonstrations in the capital, Manama.

[28.02.11 00:46]

Links & News 21.-28.2.2011:

Bahrain cancels Formula One race – Al Jazeera, 21.02.2011 – Crown prince says nation must „focus on issues of national interest“ as Grand Prix event is called off amid unrest.

Bahrain: Coming Out in Numbers in Search for Unity – Global Voices Blogger Community, 21.02.2011 – A week has passed since protests broke in the capital Manama on February 14th calling for real democracy in the Kingdom. Seven men have lost their lives, with the latest martyr Abdulredha Mohammed passing away on Monday in Salmaniya Hospital after being shot by military forces on Friday.

Frederik Richter: Bahrain opposition figure to return in test for talks – Reuters, 22.02.2011 – A Bahraini opposition figure was set to return to the Gulf Arab country on Tuesday after a week of unprecedented protests by majority Shi’ite Muslims against the U.S.-backed Sunni monarchy. Hassan Mushaimaa, leader of the opposition Haq movement, said on his Facebook page on Monday that he wanted to see if the island nation’s leadership was serious about dialogue and would arrest him or not.

Bahrain protesters back in action – Al Jazeera, 22.02.2011 – Tens of thousands march in the first organised demonstration since unrest broke out in the Gulf Arab nation.

Mass protests continue in Bahrain – World Socialist Web Site, 24.02.2011 – Tens of thousands of anti-government demonstrators took to the streets of Bahrain’s capital, Manama, this week.

Bahrain holds mass rally to honor victims – Press TV, 25.02.2011 – Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters have taken to the streets of the Bahraini capital, demanding an end to the rule of the country’s Sunni regime.

Bahrainis want ‚elected government‘ – Press TV, 26.02.2011 – The head of Bahrain’s al-Wefaq party says the opposition only welcomes dialogues that will lead to the establishment of an elected government.

King shuffles Cabinet as demonstration continue – Los Angeles Times, 26.02.2011 – Bahrain’s Sunni King Hamed ibn Isa Khalifa replaced four members of the country’s Cabinet on Saturday, including two members of the royal family, as demonstrations calling for democratic reforms and a crackdown on corruption continued in the island.

Bahrain sacks ministers amid protests – Press TV, 26.02.2011 – Bahrain’s king sacks four cabinet ministers as tens of thousands of people pour into the streets of the capital, Manama, calling for an end to the monarchy.

Bahrain: ‚The regime must fall‘ – Green Left Weekly, 27.02.2011 – Protester Muhammad Abdullah told the New York Times: “This is the first time in the history of Bahrain that the majority of people, of Bahraini people, got together with one message: this regime must fall.”

Bahrain roaring with overdue revolution – Press TV, 27.02.2011 – „Many Bahrainis blame British national Ian Henderson for the recent violent crackdown on thousands of pro-democracy protesters“ and not without good reason.

Protest marches fill Bahrain capital as pressure mounts on rulers – The Canadian Press, 27.02.2011 – Tens of thousands of anti-government protesters are streaming through Bahrain’s diplomatic area and other neighbourhoods as demonstrations against the kingdom’s rulers show no signs of easing. At least three processions Sunday …

Bahrain MPs resign to protest bloodshed – Press TV, 27.02.2011 – Lawmakers from the largest parliamentary bloc in Bahrain have protested at the government-ordered bloodshed of pro-democracy protesters by staging a mass departure.

Thousands protest in Bahrain as MPs resign – AFP, 27.02.2011 – Thousands of Bahrainis marched in Manama on Sunday calling for the fall of the ruling Sunni dynasty, as 18 opposition MPs submitted their letter of resignation to protest the killing of demonstrators.

Bahrain Shia groups seek to unify demands – Financial Times, 28.02.2011 – Hassan Mushaima, the exiled leader of Bahrain’s Shia Haq movement, received a rapturous welcome when he returned to the island kingdom on Saturday, with tens of thousands of supporters thronging …

Obama backs Bahrain king’s pledge – BBC News Middle East, 28.02.2011 – US President Barack Obama expresses his support for the King of Bahrain’s affirmed commitment to reform after two weeks of anti-government protests.

Obama calls for talks in Bahrain – Press TV, 28.02.2011 – US President Barack Obama has called for talks between the Bahraini government and the opposition as pro-democracy demonstrators continue their campaign for regime change in the Persian Gulf country.

Bahrain protests demand political change – World Socialist Web Site, 01.03.2011 – Anti-government protests are continuing in the Persian Gulf kingdom of Bahrain. Demonstrators blockaded the National Assembly, Bahrain’s rubber-stamp parliament, on Monday. Crowds of thousands are still occupying Pearl Square, the focus for demonstrators in the capital city, Manama.

No end in sight to protests in Bahrain – Press TV, 01.03.2011 – Mass protests in Bahrain have shown no sign of a decline after nearly two weeks as protesters are demanding the ouster of the ruling regime and parliamentarians to resign.

UK agent named butcher of Bahrain – Press TV, 01.03.2011 – The British government has recently revoked more than 50-weapon export licenses to Bahrain in the Persian Gulf and Libya in North Africa.

Thousands stage anti-government protest in Bahrain – Reuters, 01.03.2011 – Bahrain saw the worst unrest since the 1990s last week when seven people were killed in protests by its majority Shi’ites who have long complained of discrimination in Sunni-ruled Bahrain, which is a close US and Saudi ally. …

Bahrainis stage new rallies in Manama – Press TV, 01.03.2011 – Thousands of Bahrainis have marched to the capital’s Pearl Square in the latest of the ongoing anti-government protests in the past two weeks.

Thousands march to Bahrain’s Pearl Square – AsiaOne, 01.03.2011 – Thousands of Bahrainis took to the street Tuesday in an anti-regime protest heading to Pearl Square, the focal point of demonstrations for over two weeks. „We are brothers, Sunnis and Shiites,“ chanted the demonstrators …

Bahrain riven with fears of sectarian conflict – Financial Times, 01.03.2011 – The immediate threat of bloodshed may have receded from Bahrain, but the tiny Gulf kingdom still feels like a country at war with itself. Over the past week, hundreds of thousands of Bahrainis have attended rallies …

A setback for business-friendly Bahrain – Washington Post, 01.03.2011 – Two weeks ago, Bahraini business leaders touched down in Phoenix to push more trade between the Persian Gulf monarchy and the Arizona city twice its size. …

Dialogue holds Bahrain hopes – Arab Times, 01.03.2011 – Political factions in Bahrain have the right to express their opinions. However, some of these factions overstepped the limits of the freedom of expression when they tried to challenge well-established national facts. …

Bahrain king fears split, seeks dialogue — minister – Reuters Africa, 01.03.2011 – Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa fears the current unrest could destroy harmony between different sectors of the population, a government minister from the Gulf state said on Tuesday. …

Factbox: Key political risks to watch in Bahrain – Reuters – Reuters, 01.03.2011 – Thousands of protesters, emboldened by uprisings in Egypt and Tunisia, have held rallies in Bahrain raising the . Seven people have been killed and hundreds wounded in protests since a „Day of Rage“ on February 14 to demand more say in the Gulf Arab …

Q&A: Newly released Bahraini activist Ali Abdulemam on Bahrain’s past and future – Mohamed Elmeshad, Al-Masry Al-Youm, 01.03.2011 – Ali Abdulemam is a prominent digital activist in Bahrain, recently released from prison in a move the government hopes will tame growing protests. The 30-year-old computer engineer established bahrainonline.org in 1998, which has flourished despite being blocked in the island nation since 2002. He was released on 22 February after five months in custody, along with 25 other detained political prisoners for the influential role his site played in galvanizing Bahraini opposition. He was previously imprisoned in 2005 for 17 days. …

Khalifa stresses UAE support to Bahrain – Khaleej Times, 02.03.2011 – The President, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on Wednesday reiterated the UAE’s support to the Kingdom of Bahrain in its resolve to safeguard security and stability of the Gulf nation.

Protests spread throughout Arabian Peninsula – World Socialist Web Site, 02.03.2011 – Renewed protests hit Yemen, Oman and Bahrain yesterday. There are signs that the protests that spread from Tunisia and Egypt to the Arabian Peninsula may also overtake Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

Relentless, thousands march to Bahrain’s Pearl Square – Google News / AP, 02.03.2011 – Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Manama Tuesday in a third week of anti-regime demonstrations, as Bahrain’s Shiite-led opposition reiterated its demands for major reforms. „We are brothers, Sunnis and Shiites,“ …

Bahrain Is Roiled By Return Of Shiite – Wall Street Journal, 02.03.2011 – Tensions between Bahrain’s ruling family and antigovernment protesters have escalated after a week of relative calm, as an opposition leader called for the overthrow of the monarchy and demonstrators marched …

Bahrain’s protesters struggle to define goals – Austin American-Statesman, 02.03.2011 – Bahraini anti-government protesters march toward the Pearl roundabout Tuesday, March 1, 2011, men on one side of the road and women on the other, in the capital of Manama, Bahrain. …

In Bahrain uprising, there’s no turning back – Montreal Gazette, 02.03.2011 – Protests in Bahrain are starting to make forays away from the central square in Manama and into different parts of the city, pressing the Sunni-led government for swift democratic reform.

Protests spreading in Bahraini capital – Press TV, 03.03.2011 – Anti-government demonstrations in the Bahraini Capital, Manama, have spread from Pearl Square — as the hub of the protests — to the other parts of the city.

The real story of Bahrain’s divided society – The Guardian, 03.03.2011 – Describing a pro-government demonstration in Bahrain last week, Michael Slackman wrote in the New York Times that it was an affluent crowd, very different from the mostly low-income Shia who were protesting …

America Blows It On Bahrain – Eurasia Review, 03.03.2011 – The Obama administration’s continued support of the autocratic monarchy in Bahrain, in the face of massive pro-democracy demonstrators, once again puts the United States behind the curve of the new political realities in the Middle East …

Protests spreading in Bahraini capital – Press TV, 03.03.2011 – Anti-government demonstrations in the Bahraini Capital, Manama, have spread from Pearl Square — as the hub of the protests — to the other parts of the city.

Bahrain opposition eyes meaningful dialogue – Arab News, 03.03.2011 – In a statement released on the official Bahrain News Agency, the government expressed hope that dialogue would begin soon despite substantial differences between the various groups.

Anti-government protest in Bahrain – Al Jazeera, 04.03.2011 – Thousands of people converge on head office of state television, a day after clashes between Sunni and Shia communities.

Bahrainis hold massive anti-govt. protest – Press TV, 04.03.2011 – Tens of thousands of Bahraini protesters have gathered outside government headquarters in the capital, escalating pressure on the ruling family to accept political reforms.

Sunnis, Shiites Clash In Bahrain – Zawya / AFP, 05.03.2011 – Police intervened to disperse young Sunnis and Shiites who clashed late Thursday in a town in Bahrain, residents said Friday. The incident in Hamad Town, south of Manama, was the first of its kind in the kingdom that has …

Iran rejects ’secret visit‘ report – Press TV, 06.03.2011 – An Iranian official denies a report by a London-based daily that a Bahraini delegation secretly traveled to Iran for confidential consultations with Iranian authorities over the recent developments in Bahrain.

Bahraini Opposition Refuses Money and Jobs Offers – New York Times, 06.03.2011 – Opposition leaders in Bahrain said Sunday that they would not be mollified by offers of money and jobs, raising the prospect of a protracted standoff between protesters and the embattled government …

Bahrain Unrest Pictures – Monsters and Critics.com, 06.03.2011 – Bahraini women take part in an opposition rally in the capital. Tens of thousands of protesters marched in the capital Manama from the old cabinet house and across from the Bahrain Financial …

PM’s office in Bahrain besieged by thousands – Deccan Chronicle, 06.03.2011 – Thousands of Shia Opposition supporters descended on the Prime Minister’s office in Bahrain on Sunday as their campaign for reform in the strategic Gulf nation enters its third week. …

The women of Bahrain take to the streets in protest – Inquirer.net, 06.03.2011 – Pushing children in strollers, carrying roses or waving the red-and-white flag of Bahrain, women — most draped in black from head to toe — have regularly turned out in force for the anti-regime protests that have filled the normally sleepy streets …

Students Demonstrate in Bahrain – NTDTV, 07.03.2011 – Video. Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of the Bahrain capital on Sunday to call for the resignation of the government and a new constitutional monarchy. Some students rode donkey carts through Manama as the Shi’ite-led demonstration converged on Pearl Square, which has been the focal point for protests in Bahrain, which erupted last month.

Bahrain: Hit and Run at Protest – Global Voices, 07.03.2011 – During Monday afternoon’s protest at the Bahrain Financial Harbour, a hit and run incident occurred which led to minor injuries to three protesters. On Twitter, the discussion continued well into the night on what happened, …

Bahrainis slam US support for regime – Press TV, 07.03.2011 – Anti-government protesters in Bahrain have gathered outside the US Embassy in the capital, Manama, calling on Washington to stop supporting the autocratic regime of the ruling al-Khalifa family.

Protests in Bahrain drag on into fourth week – International Business Times, 07.03.2011 – Anti-government protests are escalating in Bahrain, as demonstrators have already marched on the U.S. embassy are now assembling before the main financial hub of downtown Manama. Several other rallies were scheduled across the small kingdom, in which a Shia majority is ruled by minority Sunni elite. …

The Battle for Bahrain – The Cutting Edge, 07.03.2011 – The oil-rich Arab states of the Persian Gulf may soon inject huge sums of aid money into Oman and Bahrain to quiet the unrest that has erupted in both countries recently. Reports of the likely funding — which includes more than $10 billion for Bahrain …

Mamoon Alabbasi: Bahrain Bleeds for Liberty – Al-Jazeerah.info, 08.03.2011 – In Bahrain, a persecuted majority has literally been bleeding for equality and now, after days of anti-regime protests, dare dream of democracy. Unfortunately, many mainstream media outlets and so called analysts have failed to report the protests …

‚US runs crackdown on Bahrainis‘ – Press TV, 08.03.2011 – Bahraini protesters take their demonstrations to the US embassy for its role in the political, military, and economic suppression of the nation.

Human rights in Bahrain in grave stage – Press TV, 08.03.2011 – It’s categorically demonstrable by facts and figures that Bahrain has one of the blackest human rights records among the Arab countries surrounding the Persian Gulf.

Bahrain oil production is on track – Gulf Daily News, 08.03.2011 – The present political situation in Bahrain has had no effect on oil production and development plans in the country, Energy Minister Dr Abdulhussain Mirza has said.

‚US, Bahrain double-deal democracy‘ – Press TV, 09.03.2011 – Bahraini protesters take their demonstrations to the US embassy for its role in the political, military, and economic suppression of the nation’s people.

Bahrainis slam naturalization policy – Press TV, 09.03.2011 – Thousands of Bahrainis have taken to the streets in the capital Manama, protesting against the kingdom’s naturalization policy.

Bahrain opposition groups eye republic – Press TV, 09.03.2011 – Three Bahraini opposition groups have formed a new bloc called “Coalition for a Republic” which they say aims at bringing down the monarchy regime in the country.

Calls for end to Bahrain monarchy – Al Jazeera, 09.03.2011 – Three Shia opposition groups join forces to demand an end to the kingdom and establishment of a ‚democratic republic‘.

Bahrain to recruit 20000 for security forces – World Tribune, 09.03.2011 – The interior minister said security forces have been on high alert. Rashid said units have been deployed in some communities to prevent clashes. A survey by Bahrain’s Akhbar Al Khaleej daily reported that industrial production has been reduced …

Bahraini student protests persist – Press TV, 10.03.2011 – Hundreds of Bahraini students have rallied in the streets of the kingdom’s capital Manama, keeping up the pressure on the unpopular Sunni-led monarchy.

Sectarian clashes at Bahrain school – Al Jazeera, 10.03.2011 – Violence between Shia and Sunni parents at school as Gulf nation braces itself for Friday’s march on the royal court.

Gates Visits Bahrain Amid Huge Protests – New York Times, 12.03.2011 – As security forces and progovernment vigilantes beat back protesters here, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates arrived Friday on an unannounced visit to offer American support to the royal …

Gates in Bahrain for unannounced visit – Press TV, 12.03.2011 – US Defense Secretary Robert Gates has made an unannounced visit to Bahrain, ostensibly to encourage its leaders to embrace reform.

Recruitment of Bahrain National Guards in Lahore – Demotix, 12.03.2011 – Scores of young men lined up before Pearl Continental Hotel, on the Mall Road of Lahore were anxious of their turn to appear before the visiting delegation of Bahrain National Guards (BNG). …

Bahrain, Oman to get $20bn amid unrest – Press TV, 12.03.2011 – Foreign ministers of the Persian Gulf littoral states pledge USD 20 billion in financial aid to Bahrain and Oman, warning against foreign meddling at a time when both countries are struggling with popular uprisings.

Demos begin in Bahrain’s Sunni heartland – Tehran Times, 12.03.2011 – Clashes broke out in Bahrain’s Sunni heartland of Riffa on Friday as pro-democracy youths were attacked by rock-throwing government-backed demonstrators. According to the Financial Times, in a move aiming to escalate …

Violence Re-Emerges in Bahrain – Wall Street Journal, 12.03.2011 – An antigovernment protester tries to break through the human wall created by security forces on the outskirts of Manama, Bahrain, Friday.

Over 770 injured in Bahrain – Press TV, 12.03.2011 – Over 700 people have been injured as Bahraini police opened fire on anti-government protesters who were heading toward the Royal Court in Manama.

Bahrain activists threatened with ‚death‘ – Press TV, 12.03.2011 – As mass anti-government protests continue in Bahrain, prominent human rights activists in the kingdom say they have received death threats through Facebook from anonymous groups.

Bahrainis injured by riot police – Press TV, 13.03.2011 – Several Bahraini protesters have been hurt in the latest crackdown on anti-government demonstrators in the crisis-hit Persian Gulf country.

VIDEO – Repression in Bahrain – Hossam el-Hamalawy, 13.03.2011 – Video. Those scenes remind me of the first week of the Egyptian uprising… I wish my Bahraini brothers and sisters all the luck in overthrowing their US-backed dictator…

Over 800 injured in Bahrain political clashes – USA Today / AP, 13.03.2011 – Hundreds of people were injured in violent clashes Sunday between protesters and armed civilians backed by police in this small island nation. Anti-government protesters evacuate the injured to hospitals in …

Big stakes in Bahrain, Saudi protests – Green Left Weekly, 13.03.2011 – The pro-democracy protests in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have the potential to have a huge impact on world politics. The stakes are very high. In Bahrain, Saudi Arabia’s tiny island neighbour, protesters have mobilised in their hundreds …

Bahraini ex-prisoners expose UK role – Press TV, 13.03.2011 – Bahrain’s former political prisoners, recently released from jail, hold the UK government responsible for the repressive policies of the Bahraini regime.

Iran calls on Bahrain to stop violence – Press TV, 13.03.2011 – Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi has called on the Bahraini government to refrain from using force and violence against protesters.

‚People demand fall of Bahrain regime‘ – Press TV, 13.03.2011 – People in Bahrain have protested in front of the King’s palace, urging the ouster of the current regime and the establishment of an elective government.

Middle East protests: Marchers seal off Bahrain’s financial center – STLtoday.com, 14.03.2011 – Thousands of anti-government demonstrators cut off Bahrain’s financial center and drove back police trying to push them from the capital’s central square — shaking the tiny island kingdom Sunday with the most disruptive protests since calls for more …

University students threatened in Bahrain – KPAX-TV / CNN, 14.03.2011 – Supporters of the rulers of Bahrain threatened about 5000 university students protesting against the government at Bahrain University Sunday, eyewitnesses said. The government denied that unjustified force was used. …

The real geostrategic importance is in Bahrain – Scoop.co.nz, 14.03.2011 – It is not there, though, that the future of the Arab world as we know it today is being decided, but in Bahrain, which currently represents the spark that could ignite the flames of revolt across the entire Persian Gulf. …

Bahrain Crown Prince offers assurances on dialogue – Reuters, 14.03.2011 – Bahrain’s crown prince renewed his call for national dialogue on Sunday, promising the talks would address key demands such as bolstering the power of parliament and that any deal could be put to a referendum. …

‚Bahrainis to step up peaceful protests‘ – Press TV, 14.03.2011 – In the course of events that have agitated Bahrain since mid-February, the capital Manama has witnessed fresh clashes between the security forces and anti-government protesters.

Britons warned to avoid Bahrain – BBC News, 14.03.2011 – The Foreign Office (FCO) has warned Britons against all travel to Bahrain after clashes between police and anti-government protesters intensified. UK nationals in the Gulf state are advised to remain at home until further notice …

Bahrain sovereign debt insurance costs jump-Markit – Reuters Africa, 14.03.2011 – The cost of insuring Bahraini sovereign debt for five years rose 12 basis points on Monday following violent protests over the weekend that prompted the island kingdom to call on neighbouring Gulf Arab countries for help …

Plan for martial law in Bahrain – Google News, 14.03.2011 – A parliament group has asked Bahrain’s king to impose martial law after a month of unrest which has left the tiny Gulf nation sharply divided between minority Sunni Muslims backing the ruling system and Shiites demanding sweeping changes. …

Bahrain lawmakers call for martial law – CNN, 14.03.2011 – A pro-government group of parliamentarians is urging the King of Bahrain to impose martial law for three months as the country continues to face anti-government protests. …

Bahrain begs for help over protests – News24.com, 14.03.2011 – Bahrain has asked for help from neighbouring Gulf Arab countries after protesters overwhelmed police and cut off roads.

Arab states to deploy troops to Bahrain – Press TV, 14.03.2011 – The six-state (Persian) Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is reportedly preparing to send military forces to crisis-hit Bahrain in an attempt to curb anti-government protests.

Saudi troops in Bahrain to halt protests – Press TV, 14.03.2011 – More than 1,000 Saudi Arabian troops have arrived in Bahrain to help Bahraini forces intensify their crackdown on anti-government demonstrators.

Saudi and UAE troops go into Bahrain, Kuwaitis on the way – DEBKAFile, 14.03.2011 – Saudi and United Arab Emirates troops crossed into Bahrain Monday, March 14 to support the king against escalating anti-throne demonstrations and Kuwaiti soldiers are on the way. A Saudi official said the units come from a special force within the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council, debkafile reports. Until recently close American allies, the two Gulf rulers have flouted President Obama’s policy of supporting popular uprisings, encouraged by Qaddafi gaining the upper hand against Libya’s rebels and Washington’s constraints against military intervention.

UAE joins Saudi invasion of Bahrain – Press TV, 14.03.2011 – The United Arab Emirates has sent around 500 police forces to neighboring Bahrain following an invasion led by Saudi Arabia to crack down on Bahraini protesters.

Saudi troops head to Sunni area in Bahrain-witnesses – Reuters, 14.03.2011 – Saudi troops who crossed into Bahrain were heading in the direction of Riffa, a Sunni Muslim area that is home to the royal family and a military hospital, witnesses said. They saw 150 armoured troop carriers, and about 50 other vehicles including ambulances, water tankers, buses and jeeps. The vehicles were lightly armed and there were no tanks or missile launchers in the procession.

Saudi Troops Enter Bahrain to Help Put Down Unrest – New York Times, 14.03.2011 – An image from Bahrain TV showed a contingent of troops arriving in Bahrain from Saudi Arabia on Monday. Troops from Saudi Arabia and police officers from the United Arab Emirates crossed into Bahrain on Monday under the aegis …

India closely monitoring evolving situation in Bahrain – Sify.com, 14.03.2011 – Minister of State for External Affairs E Ahamed on Monday said that India is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Bahrain. „I am in constant touch with our Ambassador and have asked him to stay closely in touch with the Indian community,“ …

Demonstrators swamp SMC services – Gulf Daily News, 14.03.2011 – Bahrain’s main hospital descended into chaos for the second time in a month yesterday as hundreds of anti-government protesters injured in clashes with riot police were brought for treatment.

‚Saudi invaders not welcome in Bahrain‘ – Press TV, 14.03.2011 – Troops from a number of Persian Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, have arrived in Bahrain to quash mass protests upon the request of the king of the tiny kingdom.

US defense officals not warned of Bahrain deployment – Reuters, 14.03.2011 – Top U.S. defense and military officials were given no indication during recent visits to the Middle East that Saudi forces would deploy to Bahrain, the Pentagon said on Monday. „We have communicated to all parties our concerns regarding actions that could be provocative or inflame sectarian tensions,“ …

[16.03.11 02:01]

Links & News vom 15.3.2011:

Lage und Einschätzungen

Patrick Cockburn: Saudis send troops into Bahrain to quell protests – The Independent, 15.03.2011 – Saudi Arabia sent troops into Bahrain yesterday to quell protests by the Shia Muslim majority against the Sunni monarchy, in a move that the opposition denounced as an act of war. … The Saudi intervention is the first time that any Arab state has acted to quell protests in another since the wave of uprisings began in the region. … The Saudi rulers are worried that unrest among the Shias of Bahrain will spread to their own Shia population in the neighbouring Eastern Province. Saudi security forces have been trying to prevent protests in the kingdom from gaining momentum. The opposition in Bahrain, including the Shia Wefaq party, issued a statement saying: „We consider the entry of Saudi Arabia or other Gulf forces into the Kingdom of Bahrain’s air, sea or land territories a blatant occupation.“ It added that Saudi intervention threatened Bahrainis „with an undeclared war by armed troops“. … The sudden escalation of the crisis in Bahrain comes just after the United States Defence Secretary, Robert Gates, visited the island to urge leaders to move on reform. He said he had told King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa and the Crown Prince that „change could be led or could be imposed“. Mr Gates said there was no evidence of Iranian involvement, but that Iran might exploit the protests for its own ends. … Bahraini leaders have long claimed their opponents are agents of Iran, but US diplomatic cables released by WikiLeaks say there is little evidence of this. The six senior Shia clerics in Bahrain are not considered militant, although they have backed the protests. The protesters at first sought to downplay sectarian differences on the island, saying they were inspired by the demand for democracy, rule of law and civil rights in Tunisia and Egypt. The initial demand was for a constitutional monarchy, but after police killed seven protesters last month attitudes among the opposition hardened and many now want an end to the monarchy.

Saudi sends troops, Bahrain Shi’ites call it „war“ – DefenceWeb / Reuters, 15.03.2011 – … In a sign that the opposition and the royals may find an 11th-hour solution, the opposition groups said they had met the crown prince to discuss the mechanism for national dialogue. Crown Prince Sheikh Salman al-Khalifa offered assurances on Sunday that talks would address key opposition demands including parliamentary, electoral and government reforms. Even if talks are successful however, the opposition is increasingly split and hardline groups may keep up protests. …

Pepe Escobar: THE ROVING EYE : House of Saud ‚liberates‘ Bahrain – Asia Times Online, 15.03.2011 – The House of Saud has rolled into Bahrain with armored carriers, tanks and troops to repress protests that have revealed the United States client state and its corrupt 200-year-old dynasty as the Gulf’s weakest link. Media-fueled illusions of Iran as the bogeyman and Saudi Arabia as a „reluctant“ regional policeman are as unreal as the West’s „support“ for Libyan rebels. … Both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain are Washington’s solid client states. Details of Bahrain’s subservience, especially to the Pentagon, abound in WikiLeaks cables – here, here and here. There’s also this one here laying down the law; „As the smallest Gulf state, Bahrain has historically needed closer security ties with a Western patron than any of its neighbors … we can use our close security ties with Bahrain to continue pushing the envelope for GCC-US security cooperation.“ …

Bahrain: Gulf states intervene against mass protests – World Socialist Web Site, 15.03.2011 – The military intervention of Saudi Arabia into Bahrain is aimed at putting down the mass protests there and intimidating opposition at home. Behind the actions of the Saudis, US imperialism is working to ensure its economic and strategic interests are maintained.

Saudi Arabia’s Missteps into Bahrain – Council on Foreign Relations, 15.03.2011 – Saudi rulers have made a major mistake in casting the crisis in Bahrain as a sectarian conflict in which Iran’s Shia proxies are battling a benign Sunni ruling class for sake of Persian aggrandizement. The rebelling in Bahrain, as indeed throughout the …

Iran and Saudis set for armed duel over Bahrain – DEBKAFile, 15.03.2011 – What led the Saudi-led GCC army units to jump unhesitatingly into Bahrain while the US and Europe dithered over Libya? Tehran won’t take this lying down. In its next issue out Friday, DEBKA-Net-Weekly outlines the potential military showdown between Iran and Saudi Arabia, explores US-Israeli intelligence blindness on Egypt, and reveals how the Libyan conflict is enriching both sides – Muammar Qaddafi and his opponents – as well as global arms traffickers.

USA

US turns blind eye to invasion of Bahrain – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – The US refuses to term as an invasion the several Persian Gulf states‘ deployment of troops to Bahrain to quell the popular uprising against the island’s monarchical rule.

Saudi told US of Bahrain intervention: US official – Geo Television Network, 15.03.2011 – The United States government was informed about Saudi Arabia’s military intervention in Bahrain before it happened, a senior US administration official said Monday. „We received word that they were planning to head into Bahrain, but not with a significant amount of lead time,“ the US official said, asking to remain anonymous. Earlier, the Pentagon had said that it had received no warning that Saudi troops and others were being deployed to keep a lid on violent protests in the Gulf kingdom. …

State Dept. advises against travel to Bahrain – Bellingham Herald, 15.03.2011 – The State Department is urging US citizens to avoid traveling to Bahrain due to „the potential for ongoing political and civil unrest.“ The department is also advising Americans currently in Bahrain to consider leaving. …

‚US to lose Fifth Fleet in a few weeks‘ – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – The United States will lose its Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain in a few weeks following its support for the embattled monarchy in Manama, a political analyst in Middle East affairs says.

White House: No Military Solution To Bahrain Crisis – RTT News, 15.03.2011 – The White House warned Tuesday that there was no military solution to the ongoing crisis in Bahrain, and urged the unrest-hit island kingdom to try and find a political solution that would address the needs of the Bahraini people. …

‚US may have OK’d Bahrain invasion‘ – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – Political analyst Sarah Marusek has suggested that Saudi Arabia and the other Arab countries that invaded Bahrain could have received a green light from Washington.

‚War, occupation threaten Bahrainis‘ – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – Bahrain’s opposition groups have equaled the several Arab nations‘ invasion of their country with the launch of an ‚undeclared war‘ on Bahraini people.

Iran urges end to Bahrain clampdowns – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – Iran’s Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi has called on the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) to help stop the clampdowns on anti-government protesters in Bahrain.

Iran summons Saudi, Swiss envoys – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – Iranian Foreign Ministry has summoned ambassadors of Switzerland and Saudi Arabia over their military intervention in the crisis-hit Bahrain. … The Swiss Embassy in Tehran represents US interests in Iran since Tehran and Washington severed diplomatic relations in 1980. “The US support for military intervention is in clear contradiction with international regulations and the United Nations Charter. So, the Islamic Republic holds the United States responsible for dangerous consequences of such illegal attitude,” said a Foreign Ministry official.

Iran against foreign military intervention in Bahrain – Xinhuanet.com, 15.03.2011 – Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman said Tuesday that the foreign military intervention in Bahrain to confront the protests is „unacceptable.“ The Persian Gulf states‘ military intervention in Bahrain will further complicate the situation, Ramin Mehmanparast said in his weekly press briefing on Tuesday … Referring to the Saturday surprise visit of the U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates to Manama, Mehmanparast said that „in any region where the U.S. military officials attend, we witness the suppression of people.“

‚Foreign moves in ME can lead to crisis‘ – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi says foreign interference in the popular uprising in Bahrain can trigger a crisis in the Middle East.

The real Bahrain I have grown to love and admire – Gulf Daily News, 15.03.2011 – I am a German citizen very often in Bahrain, due to many business trips and conferences throughout the year. Everytime I am in Bahrain I feel at home. The people in Bahrain are very warm, lovely and always with a smile on their faces. …

Saudi Press commends the GCC support of Bahrain – Bahrain News Agency, 15.03.2011 – The Saudi newspapers commended this morning the support of GCC countries towards Bahrain’s current circumstances, and called to stand against those working to destabilize the security and stability of the Kingdom …

Shadow Government: The GCC shores up Bahrain – Foreign Policy, 15.03.2011 – Little noticed amidst the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) support for a UN no-fly zone in Libya on March 13th was another endorsement for the use of military force: deployment of GCC military and police forces to Bahrain. The choice of Gulf governments …

Meris Lutz: Qatar: Al Jazeera faces tough questions as Doha backs Saudi troops in Bahrain – Los Angeles Times Blog, 15.03.2011 – The Doha, Qatar-based Al Jazeera news network has been credited with helping to sustain protest movements across the region with its wall-to-wall coverage, but will its editorial line change now that Qatar has voiced support for Saudi intervention in Bahrain? … Al Jazeera is considered among the most credible Arabic news sources, but it has been accused at certain times of allowing its royal backer’s political affiliations to skew its coverage. Al Jazeera Arabic, in particular, has recently been criticized for what some see as its overly careful handling of violent clashes between Bahraini protesters and government forces.

As unrest bubbles, Bahrain and Yemen obstruct press – CPJ Press Freedom Online, 15.03.2011 – … In Bahrain, security forces and men in plain clothes beat Mohammed al-Mukharaq, a photographer working for the independent daily Al-Wasat, according to news reports and local journalists. Mukharaq, wearing a vest that carried the name of his newspaper, told CPJ he was covering a demonstration on Sunday in Manama when a group of 20 or more men approached, beat him, crushed his camera and mobile phone. Mukharaq said he suffered extensive bruising. Local journalists told CPJ that a list called the „Bahrain list of dishonor,“ is circulating online and identifying 25 people as „collaborators aiming to sell their country.“ The author is unclear. CPJ, which reviewed the list, found the names of at least nine critical journalists, including Mansour al-Jamri, editor-in-chief of Al-Wasat; Abduljalil Alsingace, a Bahraini blogger and human rights activist; Ali Abdel Imam, a Bahraini blogger; and Qasem Hussein, a critical columnist. …

Gangs with clubs attack Bahrain newspaper – ABC Online, 15.03.2011 – A gang armed with clubs and butcher knives has attacked the printing press of Bahrain’s only opposition newspaper Al Wasat in the early hours of Tuesday morning in an effort to stop its publication. Ahmed Mahdi, the head of Al Wasat printing press, said youths had been gathering outside the building and harassing employees for three days, forcing staff to seek a police escort into the building. „Yesterday, it changed. The police escorted us as usual and then at 1am some thugs entered the building carrying knives and calling ‚where are they, where are they‘,“ he said. … Al Wasat, which means ‚The Centre‘ in Arabic, was set up in 2002 after Bahrain’s king introduced reforms that allowed independent press licences. All of Bahrain’s other newspapers are pro-government or affiliated with senior officials. …

‚Saudis declaring war against Bahrainis‘ – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – A Bahraini opposition leader says the Saudi government is manifestly waging war on the people of Bahrain by sending troops to help suppress the popular uprising in the country.

Bahrain’s Shias ‚ready for martyrdom‘ – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – Bahraini Shias have said they are ready to sacrifice their lives in defense of the people’s right to hold peaceful protests against the ruling al-Khalifa family in the Persian Gulf state.

Bahrain oppos. leader warns of PG war – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – A Bahraini opposition leader has warned that if Saudi Arabia does not withdraw its forces from Bahrain, a new war could spread across the Persian Gulf region.

Saudi soldier gunned down in Bahrain – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – A Saudi soldier has been killed in Bahrain clashes following an incursion by Arab armies to quell popular protests in the Persian Gulf state, sources say.

Bahrain declares state of alert – BBC News, 15.03.2011 – The king of Bahrain has declared a state of emergency for three months, starting immediately, state television reports.

Bahrain under state of emergency – Al Jazeera, 15.03.2011 – King announces emergency powers for three months following weeks of unrest on the island, state television says.

Bahrain declares state of emergency – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has declared a three-month state of emergency in the country as anti-government protests continue in the Persian Gulf state.

Martial law declared in Bahrain – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – Following the deployment of armed mercenaries, confirmed use of nerve gas, and the compliance by al-Khalifa to allow Saudi and GCC troops and tanks to enter Bahrain in order to supposedly restore order, the Bahraini government has declared Martial law.

Bahrain declares state of emergency, martial law – Vancouver Sun, 15.03.2011 – Female Anti-government protesters gather outside the Saudi Arabian embassy in Manama, on March 15, 2011, as Bahrain’s king Hamad declared a three-month state of emergency as Iran …

Move to restore stability in Bahrain – GulfNews, 15.03.2011 – Bahrain’s King Hamad Bin Eisa Al Khalifa on Tuesday issued a decree declaring a three-month state of national safety. The decree is in line with Article 36 of the constitution stipulating that „the state of national safety or martial law shall …

Two people killed as protests spread in Bahrain – Monsters and Critics.com, 15.03.2011 – Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) troops, based in Saudi Arabia and including around 1000 Saudi soldiers, were dispatched on Monday at Bahrain’s request. Another 500 troops originate from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The GCC is comprised of Bahrain, …

Over 200 shot in Bahrain – Press TV, 15.03.2011 – Over 200 Shia people have been reportedly injured during unrest in Bahrain as the anti-government protesters continue their peaceful demonstrations.

Two killed in new Bahrain clashes – BBC News, 15.03.2011 – At least two people are killed and as many as 200 injured in clashes between anti-government demonstrators and security forces in Bahrain.

Video Bahrain IV: Massacre in Sitrah – ABNA.ir, 15.03.2011 – Confirmed reports from Bahrain expresses that up to 800 injured and martyred in Sitra. 5 Bahraini protesters martyred defending their country against aggressors up to now. According to informed sources in Bahrain, Saudi military forces severely …

Hundreds Shot In Bahrain Protest – Peace FM Online, 15.03.2011 – As the violence escalated, close ally the United States warned that there was „no military solution“ to political upheaval in Bahrain and that any violence against peacefully expressed political demands „should be stopped“. …

EU urges ‚right to assemble‘ in Bahrain – Zawya / AFP, 15.03.2011 – The European Union on Tuesday urged „utmost restraint“ in Bahrain after the dispatch of Gulf troops and called on security forces to respect the „right to assemble peacefully“. „We’re very concerned by reports of serious …

UK „extremely concerned“ by Bahrain state of emergency – Reuters, 15.03.2011 – Britain is extremely concerned about the escalation of the situation in Bahrain and the declaration of a state of emergency, Foreign Secretary William Hague said on Tuesday. „We’re extremely concerned about the escalation of the …

Government urges Pinoys in Bahrain to restrict movements – Philippine Star, 15.03.2011 – The embassy in Bahrain has been closely monitoring developments in the country, and has met with the Filipino community leaders in the country as early as Feb. 17 to orient them on the embassy’s contingency plans. …

Bahraini Saudi tanks disperse protesters. Tehran: Dangerous consequences – DEBKAFile, 16.03.2011 – The contest between Iran and Saudi Arabia and the Sunni-Shiite split in the Arab world were ramped up Wednesday March 16 by the Bahraini security crackdown launched with tanks and helicopters to drive the mostly Shiite protesters out of Manama’s main square and key points of the island-state while Saudi troops guarded strategic areas. Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi warned: “The unexpected interference of foreign forces in popular uprisings in different countries including Bahrain will have dangerous consequences.“

Turkey tries to soothe tension between Iran, Saudi Arabia – Hurriyet Daily News, 16.03.2011 – Fearing further trouble in the volatile region, Turkey has warned Saudi Arabia and Iran, at odds over the Saudi intervention in Bahrain, to act with restraint and avoid actions that would undermine peace and stability. Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu warned his Saudi and Iranian counterparts against creating problems in the Middle East, calling on both sides to act with restraint following their spat over Bahrain, the Hürriyet Daily News & Economic Review has learned.

Nick Turse: How a tiny kingdom strong-armed the US – Asia Times Online, 16.03.2011 – The bullet that killed a pro-democracy protester in Bahrain last month was probably paid for by American taxpayers. Just how US bullets make their way into guns used by the tiny country’s troops opens a window on the Pentagon’s relationships with autocratic Arab states that have recently proven more powerful than American ideals and the United States president. …

Americans and Filipinos are advised to consider leaving – Gulf Daily News, 16.03.2011 – Americans and Filipinos in Bahrain are being urged by their governments to leave as a result of ongoing political unrest. In an updated travel warning published on the US State Department website yesterday, the Bureau of Consular Affairs also warned Americans against travelling here. „We urge US citizens to defer travel to Bahrain at this time. US citizens currently in Bahrain should consider departing,“ it read.

Egyptian unions’ solidarity with Bahraini workers against Saudi incursion – Egypt Workers Solidarity, 16.03.2011 – No for Foreign Interference in Bahrain. Yes for Active National Dialogue. Cairo,15 March, 2011. Representatives of the Egyptian Federation of Independent Trade Unions and the Regional Office of the International Confederation of Trade Unions in the Arab Region participating in the workshop held in Cairo on Building Independent and Democratic Trade Unions follow up with great concern the escalating situation in Bahrain particularly after the armed forces from Saudi Arabia and the Emirates entered Bahrain. They severely denounce this intervention in the internal affairs in Bahrain and imposing the state of emergency in the country. They also announce their full solidarity with the call for general strike as from 13 March as declared by the General Trade Union of the Workers of Bahrain …

WFTU: Solidarity with the people of Bahrain – World Federation of Trade Unions, 16.03.2011 – The WFTU expresses its support and solidarity to the people and working class of Bahrain, who are struggling for DEMOCRACY, FREEDOM and JUSTICE. To stop the plundering of the resources of the country by capitalists, kings and emirs. We strongly condemn the martial law declared by the government and we demand to immediately end it. …

Rights group: Saudi forces entering Bahrain may spark civil war – Al-Masry Al-Youm, 16.03.2011 – The entry of armed forces from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates into Bahrain, where protests demanding democratic reforms are taking place, threatens to trigger a civil war in the country, said the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies on Wednesday. In a press statement, the rights group accused the Arab League and the United States of collusion with regards to the entry of the GCC forces into Baharain, where they aim to crack down on the Bahraini people’s movement for democratic reform. The Institute said the Bahraini army and police forces, supported by the Saudi and UAE armed forces, began on Wednesday to expand „the brutal suppression of the legitimate aspirations of the Bahraini people towards profound political and constitutional reforms.“ … According to the Institute, the participation of troops from the three Gulf countries, all of which are governed by Sunni families, threatens to turn the Shia-dominated Bahrain into a „blood bath in which gross violations of human rights and international humanitarian law are committed, similar to the violations and brutal crimes being committed by the Libyan regime against its people.“ …

Pepe Escobar: THE ROVING EYE : The Arab counter-revolution is winning – Asia Times Online, 17.03.2011 – In the inextricable Saudi/Washington nexus, democracy may be acceptable for Tunisia, Egypt and Libya, but it’s a very bad idea for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and other friendly Gulf dictatorships. The message of the Gulf kingdoms and sheikhdoms to Washington is unambiguous and effective; if we „fall“, your strategic game is in pieces. Once more, „stability“ trumps democracy.

Omar al-Shehabi: Demography and Bahrain’s Unrest – Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, 17.03.2011 – The Bahraini monarchy has long relied on foreigners not only as military and police forces, but also to shift the political balance in the island kingdom. The opposition in Bahrain, drawing primarily but not exclusively on support from the country’s majority of Shi’i Muslims, has accused the government of fast-tracking the citizenship of carefully selected foreigners in order to change the demographic makeup of the country. The “politically naturalized,” as they are called, are Sunni Muslims mainly from Bedouin tribes in Saudi Arabia, Syria, Yemen, Jordan, and Baluchistan. They are seen as having close ethnic and cultural links to the local rulers. Estimates of their numbers range from 50,000 to 200,000, constituting between one-tenth and one-third of the total number of citizens. The politically naturalized are mainly employed in the security and defense forces, increasing the perception that they have been brought in to contain the local population. The graphic videos surfacing of the recent attacks by security forces against protestors show actions that involved some foreign or politically naturalized individuals. This systematic use of foreign forces is a tradition that goes back decades. It was first used in the region by the British in the nineteenth century, when divisions composed of individuals from Baluchistan and the Indian sub-continent were brought in to help establish control over the Trucial coast. It limits the risk of identification with locals and of defection. Fears about loyalty are less of an issue, as long as the right material incentives are provided. … The regime has also tried to use some of the expatriate workforce on the island for explicitly political purposes. Groups of expatriates have attended the pro-regime demonstrations, whether willingly or not, helping to swell the size of the demonstrations. The majority, however, remain apolitical, with their interests largely confined to the economic domain. The demographic makeup has also been used as a way to limit dependence on the local population in the economic sphere, helping the regime to avoid the labor unrest that has been a constant feature of Bahrain’s modern history. Bahrainis currently constitute less than a quarter of the labor force, so their impact on the economy production-wise (should they choose to strike) is much more contained. They also make up less than half of the 1.2 million residents of the island (down from roughly two-thirds a decade ago). …

Bangladeshis complain of Bahrain rally ‚coercion‘ – BBC News, 17.03.2011 – Some Bangladeshi expatriates in Bahrain say they have been forced to take part in pro-government rallies. They have told the BBC that their enforced participation has provoked retaliatory attacks from the country’s majority Shia population. A Bangladeshi community leader said that two expatriate workers had been killed on Tuesday and shops owned by Bangladeshis were attacked. The authorities in Bahrain have not commented on the claims. There are 100,000 Bangladeshi expatriate workers in Bahrain, more than 300,000 Indian expatriate workers, 60,000 Pakistanis and about 30,000 Nepalis. India and Nepal both say that their citizens are safe, but advised them to keep a low profile. Pakistan says there are no plans to repatriate its nationals despite reports that a Pakistani was killed and four others were injured by protesters in the capital city, Manama, on Sunday. Correspondents say that the position of Bangladeshis and Pakistanis in Bahrain is especially dangerous because they are Sunni Muslims caught up in what is partly a sectarian conflict. …

Brian Whitaker: Bahrainis cannot be subdued for ever – The Guardian, 17.03.2011 – … Religious differences clearly play a big part in Bahrain. After all, the kingdom has a Shia majority ruled by a Sunni minority. Shia Muslims account for most of the protesters, partly because they are the majority and also because they have more to complain about. But, as Bahraini commentator Tahiyya Lulu has pointed out in a couple of recent articles, the pro-reform demonstrators cover a wide spectrum that transcends the sectarian divide. The effect of the Saudi intervention is to sectarianise the conflict more than it need have been and, in effect, to prevent any accommodation between the rulers of Bahrain and the protesters. „We’re not going in [to Bahrain] to shoot people, we’re going in to keep a system in place,“ a Saudi official was quoted as saying in the Washington Post. An official from the UAE put it even more bluntly: „We and the Saudis will not accept a Shi’ite government in Bahrain.“ In other words, as far as the GCC countries are concerned, democracy or majority rule can never be allowed there. …

Why the Bahrain rebellion could prove calamitous for the West – Telegraph.co.uk, 17.03.2011 – But an even graver threat to our future prosperity and security is unfolding in the tiny Gulf state of Bahrain. … An estimated 30 per cent of Bahraini Shia are of Persian descent, and maintain contact with relatives in Iran. In the past, this has enabled Iran’s Revolutionary Guards to establish terrorist cells in the kingdom, aimed at destabilising the monarch. In 1981, a Tehran-organised plot to overthrow the government was uncovered. Bahraini security officials are constantly on the alert for signs of Iranian meddling, and have accused some members of the opposition Shia movement of being funded by Tehran. The issue is further complicated by Iran’s long-standing insistence that it has a legitimate territorial claim over Bahrain. A recent Iranian newspaper editorial claimed that the kingdom was in fact a province of Iran. It is because of these simmering tensions between the states that the royal family’s decision this week to call for Saudi reinforcements is fraught with danger. …

M K Bhadrakumar: Saudis bring Iran, US closer together – Asia Times Online, 17.03.2011 – After Saudi forces „liberated“ Bahrain, criticism of the United States by Iranian President Mahmud Ahmadinejad was noticeably restrained. For the fourth time in the past six weeks, Iran and the US find themselves on the same side of the fence – on Tunisia, Egypt and Libya, and now over Bahrain. The big question is whether United States President Barack Obama notices.

Bahrain upheaval tests Obama backing for democracy – Google News / AP, 17.03.2011 – … Still, while denouncing violence, U.S. officials have not backed the protesters. Aaron David Miller, a former Mideast adviser to six U.S. secretaries of state, said the United States was „caught in the middle. On one hand we are committed publicly to rather robust support of democratic forces, but trapped by our own devil’s bargain in maintaining interests that are vital to our policy. …

Sailors Warned to Stay Away from Protests in Bahrain – US Navy SEALs Blog, 17.03.2011 – The Bahrain-based 5th Fleet has issued a warning to personnel to avoid protest areas, according to a feature on the Navy Times. On Wednesday, hundreds of protesters were expelled by soldiers and riot police in Manama, using tear gas and armored vehicles. … The 6,100 personnel of the 5th Fleet have been warned to avoid contested areas, which include Pearl Square and the Financial District. The personnel were also warned about observing the curfew imposed by the king of Bahrain on Wednesday. Some areas now have curfews in place, from 4 p.m. to 4 a.m.; the curfew affects the area between the Saif Flyover and the Shaikh Isa bin Salman Bridge. In a “Situation Update” posting, the 5th Fleet said: “Service members who live in these areas should speak with the personnel manning government checkpoints to receive authorization to travel within… Violation of the curfew areas can face legal action.” 5th Fleet spokesman Lt. Frederick Martin, … also refuted a report by WorldTribune.com, which indicated that the Navy has evacuated NSA Bahrain: “There has not been any change to the number of personnel serving here in Bahrain.” …

UN warns of ’shocking‘ abuses in Bahrainin – France24, 17.03.2011 – The United Nations has warned of „shocking and illegal“ abuses in Bahrain after a bloody crackdown on Shiite-led protesters which has alarmed the United States and infuriated the Shiite world. The United Nations has warned of „shocking and illegal“ …

Amnesty condemns Bahrain crackdown – News24.com, 17.03.2011 – Amnesty International has denounced the crackdown on the pro-democracy uprising in Bahrain saying the government was „very clearly trying to suppress any kind of freedom of speech“.

Jordan renews support for Gulf security – Jordan Times, 17.03.2011 – Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Judeh on Wednesday said that the security of the Gulf is a vital issue to Jordan and foreign interference in the region a “red line”. Commenting on the situation in Bahrain, the top diplomat said in a statement to the Jordan News Agency, Petra, that Jordan is concerned with the security, stability and sovereignty of Bahrain and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and considers foreign intervention in its domestic affairs a red line.

Bahrain ‚arrests six opposition leaders‘ – The Independent, 17.03.2011 – Authorities detained at least six prominent opposition activists today as the crackdown on dissent widened under martial law-style rule in the tiny Gulf nation, a rights group and relatives of the arrested said.

Bahrain arrests 6 opposition leaders after crackdown – Today’s Zaman, 17.03.2011 – Bahrain arrested at least six opposition leaders on Thursday, a day after its crackdown on protests by the Shiite Muslim majority drew rare US criticism and raised fears of a regional conflict. Bahraini forces used tanks and helicopters to drive protesters off the streets and clear a camp that had become a symbol of their demand for more democratic rights in the Sunni-ruled kingdom.

Unrest Hurts Trade In ‚Business Friendly‘ Bahrainin – NPR, 17.03.2011 – Shiite Bahraini youths burn tires Wednesday, March 16, 2011, near a shopping mall in Malkiya, Bahrain, as they awaited government forces they anticipated would roll into their Shiite Muslim village southwest of the capital of Manama. …

Govt urged to begin mandatory repatriation of Pinoys in Bahrain – GMANews.TV, 17.03.2011 – The government should begin repatriating the Filipinos who are either residing or working in Bahrain before the political situation there worsens, Senate foreign relations committee chairperson Loren Legarda said Thursday. …

India advises its nationals in Bahrain – Sify, 17.03.2011 – India on Thursday advised its nationals in Bahrain that those people whose presence is not necessary should consider leaving the country even as the Indian envoy there met the Prime Minister who assured everything would be done …

Entry of Saudi Forces Fires up Middle East Sunni-Shiite Discord – DEBKAFile, 18.03.2011 – By stepping into Bahrain, the Saudis took the calculated risk of accelerating Sunni-Shiite discord across the region. Because of the challenge to its religious supremacy from Iraq, Tehran is re-thinking the wisdom of its decision to hijack the Arab uprisings.

The Shiite Guerilla War in Bahrain Has Begun – DEBKAFile, 18.03.2011 – The Saudi-led GCC forces in Bahrain to support the king face the onset of a Shiite guerrilla war organized by Hizballah on Iran’s behalf. They all understand that this war will spread further.

Bahrain slams Iran’s interference in its affairs – Xinhuanet.com, 18.03.2011 – Bahrain on Thursday slammed Iran’s interference in its internal affairs after the latter communicated with international organizations expressing concern about the situation in the Kingdom. Hamad Al Amer, Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry official in charge of Regional and Gulf Cooperation Council Affairs, described the Iranian step as a „very strange act and an encroachment“ on the sovereignty of Bahrain.

UN warns Bahrain over crackdown – Al Jazeera, 18.03.2011 – Secretary general Ban Ki-moon calls King Hamad to express his „deepest concern“ about use of force against protesters.

UK analyst blames US for Saudi invasion of Bahrain – TwoCircles.net / IRNA, 18.03.2011 – A British political analyst says the “invasion” of Saudi forces into Bahrain to suppress the democratic movement has taken place by the US support. Peter Eyre, from the Eyre International, said there have also been reports that the …

Saudi Arabian minister: Situation in Bahrain has calmed – Hurriyet Daily News, 18.03.2011 – Saudi Arabia Foreign Minister Prince Saud al-Faisal has told Turkish officials that the situation in Bahrain is now calm, with only a few recent clashes after Gulf troops were deployed in the country. Turkey urged al-Faisal to end the military presence of Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Cooperation Council, or GCC, countries in Bahrain quickly, citing concerns it could lead to a Shiite-Sunni clash in the Gulf region, …

Qatar has sent troops to Bahrain: official – Google News / AFP, 18.03.2011 – Qatari troops are part of the Gulf forces deployed to Bahrain to put down Shiite-led protests against the Sunni dynasty there, said a Qatari military official. „The duty of the Qatari force participating in the Peninsula Shield force is to …

Kuwait says navy heading to Bahrain soon: ambassador – Reuters, 18.03.2011 – Kuwait’s navy plans to head to Bahrain soon to protect the Gulf Arab island nation’s waters, Kuwait’s ambassador to Bahrain was quoted as saying on Thursday. On Monday, Bahrain asked for support under a Gulf defense pact after weeks …

Bahrain to pursue dialogue, get more Gulf troops – Reuters, 18.03.2011 – Bahrain remains committed to dialogue with the opposition but restoring security is a priority and more Gulf troops will arrive on the island to support its forces, the foreign minister said on Friday. …

Bahrain bleeds from American bullets – RT, 18.03.2011 – In Bahrain the monarchy, now with the help of its neighbors in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, continues to violently crackdown on anti-government protesters. Meanwhile, the US remains focused on Libya, overlooking violence …

Bahrain clashes: ‚Riot police showed no mercy‘ – CBS News, 18.03.2011 – Bahraini riot police patrol Thursday, March 17, 2011 in the streets of Jidhafs, Bahrain, on the outskirts of the capital of Manama. Security forces are moving through Shiite villages, cracking down and making arrests. At 2pm local time Thursday – before curfew – CBS Radio News reporter Toula Vlahou was covering clashes between protesters and riot police outside Manama, Bahrain. Riot police were firing tear gas and advancing toward the protesters. Vlahou and her BBC driver, a local Bahraini who was taking pictures – decided to leave the area. The riot police confronted them while they were in the car. The driver backed up and the riot police opened fire on the car. „We were attacked by a wall of riot police,“ Vlahou said. „We thought they were going to fire tear gas at us. But they fired pellets at us.“ „I had to fall to the ground in the driver’s seat as the driver was driving to get out of there,“ Vlahou added. The riot police began chasing them and continued shooting at the car. A helicopter was hovering above them for the entire time. …

BCHR: Bahraini Security Personnel are Instigating and Inciting Civil Violence – Bahrain Center for Human Rights, 18.03.2011 – Security Forces are engaging in rogue practices which inflame the current situation in Bahrain and endanger innocent civilians even further. The BCHR strongly condemns the recently reported attack with a Molotov cocktail on the house of journalist and commentator Lamees Dhaif, who has recently been outspoken in her opposition to government policies. The BCHR notes that shocking evidence has surfaced showing that members of security forces are encouraging the targeting of opposition figures. The BCHR have seen broadcast messages issued by security personnel listing the telephone numbers of Ms Dhaif along with former Health Minister Dr Nizar Al Baharna, former MP Jalal Fairouz, the Iranian ambassador to Bahrain as well as others, urging contacts to harass the individuals. Broadcasts also include incitement to sectarian hatred, describing the individuals as ‚children of muta’a‘ (meaning temporary marriages, a practice accepted within Shia Islam). Inflammatory broadcasts also claim that the ‚Baharna‘ (meaning Shia Bahraini) are gathering in Hamad Town to declare ‚jihad‘ (religious war) on Sunni Bahrainis, and urges them (Sunni Bahrainis) to move out of neighborhoods inhabited by Shia Bahrainis. … The BCHR calls for:

– An immediate end to the continual excessive use of violence and rogue practices of security personnel in Bahrain,

– A top down reform of the Interior Minsitry which is already notorious for its culture of brutality and corruption

– Independent and transparent investigations into all acts of violence, including crimes committed by members of the security forces.

The BCHR notes that the dangerous effect of the rogue actions of security personnel, many of whom are Asian, has lead to targeted attacks on ordinary Asian civilian residents in Bahrain in recent days (see previous release).

Amnesty Int: Urgent Action: Eight Activists Detained In Bahrain – Bahrainrights.org, 18.03.2011 – Eight prominent opposition activists have been detained in Bahrain following the use of grossly excessive force by Bahraini security forces, backed by Saudi Arabian troops, against anti-government protestors. Six people were killed on 16 March and hundreds injured. Amnesty International believes the eight detainees are prisoners of conscience and is calling for their immediate and unconditional release. They are also at risk of torture. …

Iraqi lawmakers support protests in Bahrain – Xinhuanet.com, 18.03.2011 – The Iraqi parliament on Thursday announced its support to demonstrations in Bahrain and condemned foreign military intervention, while hundreds of Iraqi Shiites rallied to support Bahrain protests. …

Kuwaiti Shiites protest over Bahrain crackdown – Trend News Agency, 18.03.2011 – Hundreds of Kuwaiti Shiites demonstrated on Thursday to protest against a violent police crackdown on Shiite-led protests in Bahrain and to thank Kuwait’s emir for not sending troops there

Iraqis rally in support of Bahrainis – Press TV, 18.03.2011 – Thousands of Iraqis have poured into the streets in major cities across the country to protest against Saudi Arabia’s military intervention in Bahrain.

Indians slam Saudi presence in Bahrain – Press TV, 18.03.2011 – A large number of Indians have demonstrated against Saudi Arabian military intervention in Bahrain aimed at cracking down anti-government protesters.

Oil trader Vitol pulls staff from Bahrain – UPI.com, 18.03.2011 – Foreign non-essential workers were pulled out of Bahrain to the United Arab Emirates amid political violence in the country, said oil trader Vitol. Independent oil trader Vitol Group said foreign workers …

Bahrain king defends state of emergency as Pearl monument torn down – The National, 18.03.2011 – „We look with all confidence to the return of normal life in Bahrain,“ Sheikh Khaled said. „We know dialogue is our path.“ The king defended the state of emergency, saying it was needed to allow the sides to negotiate. „Security and stability represent …

[19.03.11 15:32]

Links & News vom 19.3.2011:

Bahrain Razes Iconic Square – Wall Street Journal, 19.03.2011 – Bahrain’s security forces razed a monument and cleared the Pearl roundabout in the capital Manama, the focal point of recent protests and one of the symbols of the unrest that has shaken the …

UAE troops arrive in Bahrain – Press TV, 19.03.2011 – Troops of the United Arab Emirates have arrived in Bahrain to join the Saudi Arabian troops which have been there since earlier this week.

Bahrain king extols UAE military attack – Press TV, 19.03.2011 – The Bahraini king has praised the deployment of United Arab Emirates (UAE) troops to Bahrain, intensifying the crackdown on anti-regime protesters in the tiny Persian Gulf kingdom.

Last of UAE troops arrive in Bahrain – Trade Arabia, 19.03.2011 – The last batch of UAE troops to be deployed in Bahrain arrived on Friday. They will join their GCC Peninsula Shield counterparts already deployed to maintain order and security in the Kingdom. The UAE’s participation is a noble and honourable stance …

Saudi Arabia Invades Bahrain – CounterPunch, 19.03.2011 – But the region’s most consequential uprising—now sure to become a revolution itself—is in the smallest Arab country: Bahrain. Who would have thought a tiny island nation of no more than 1.2 million people and only 530000 citizens …

How the Bahrain Regime Wants to Erase Its Bad Memories – TIME (blog), 19.03.2011 – The vans outside, she said, sported the insignia of Bahrain’s national security forces. Sharif, the leader of the Bahrain’s opposition Waad party, was among several key anti-government activists arrested in a wave of pre-dawn raids on Thursday and …

US Says ‚Deeply Troubled‘ By Opposition Arrests In Bahrain – RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty, 19.03.2011 – Demonstrators hold a Bahraini flag to denounce a crackdown on Shi’ite-led demonstrators in Bahrain in Baghdad on March 18. The United States says it’s „deeply troubled“ by the arrests of opposition leaders and other individuals who have been pushing …

‚Bahraini intifada set to meet demands‘ – Press TV, 19.03.2011 – Bahrainis will continue with the anti-government protests until their demands are met regardless of the regime’s brutal crackdown backed by foreign military invasion, an analyst say.

Iraqis rally for third day of Bahrain protests – Google News / AFP, 19.03.2011 – Thousands of protesters in southern Iraq chanted slogans and carried effigies of Gulf rulers on Saturday in a third day of rallies supporting Shiite-led pro-democracy protests in Bahrain. About 7000 protesters, many of them women, …

Bahrain trouble triggers panic among migrant workers‘ families – Times of India, 19.03.2011 – The ongoing conflict in Bahrain in the United Arab Emirates is worrying migrant workers from AP, especially those hailing from north Telangana districts. These workers migrated 3-4 years ago in search of employment. …

RSF: More harassment of journalists covering pro-democracy demonstrations – Bahrainrights.org, 19.03.2011 – Reporters Without Borders records that the authorities continue to respond with violence to protests movement in Bahrain, Yemen and, now, the Palestinian Territories. Reporters Without Borders condemns these attempts to censor and intimidate. With military contingents now being sent from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to help contain the political agitation, men armed with clubs and knives stormed the printing press of Al-Wasat, Bahrain’s only independent daily, on 15 March and smashed equipment, thereby preventing the newspaper from publishing. … Mohammed Jamjoom, a CNN correspondent based in Abu Dhabi, was deported on 16 March for unclear reasons. … Wall Street Journal reporter Alex Delmar-Morgan was arrested by members of the National Guard as he walked towards Pearl Square on 16 March and was held for three hours. Al-Wasat photographer Mohammed al-Mukharaq was attacked by a score of plain-clothes security agents while taking photos of protesters on 13 March. … Tension between Bahrain’s Shiite and Sunni communities is mounting and there have been calls on the Internet for the closure of the bureau of the Iranian Shiite TV station Alalam and the arrest of its correspondent, Ali Al-Mousawi. [Full report on rsf.org]

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Source: Latin American Observatory of Environmental Conflicts (OLCA) - MiningWatch Canada (Santiago/Ottawa) While Barrick has been offloading assets and reducing operational costs in order to improve its standing with shareholders, the social costs of the Pascua Lama project in Chile’s Huasco Valley continue to grow. Despite company statements that communit […]